This summer, Eastern Connecticut State University hosted more than 60 high school students for its annual Summer Transition at Eastern Program/Contract Admissions Program, better known as STEP/CAP. After successful completion of the program, participants will be admitted as first-year students this fall 2024 semester.

The six-week program was administered by Christina Irizarry, director of Opportunity Programs, and acquaints incoming Eastern students to the college lifestyle through intensive classes, administrative seminars and social activities. 

“This summer we had 61 students successfully complete the STEP/CAP program – the largest group in several years,” said Irizarry. “During the program, they learned critical social and academic skills to be ready for the fall. This incoming class is confident and creative, with a strong sense of independence. They will bring an infectious energy to the campus this upcoming year.”

“I think it's a really good program to help kids transition from high school to college,” said a STEP/CAP student named Ashley. “It's also a really good adjustment into college and since the classes are credited, we get a (head start) as well.” 

The program's community leaders (CLs) are current Eastern students who bond with the students and track their classroom progress. Senior computer science major Ian Valeta explained that STEP/CAP participants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 to pass the program. Valeta also elaborated on the various academic and personal support CLs provide to the students and how they assess their progress over the weeks. 

“CLs such as myself and my coworkers sit in on class lectures, ensure students are present and on time, take note of behaviors that we want students to work on, and offer support for students struggling to keep up with the workload,” said Valeta. “There have been a lot of interesting challenges and now that I'm a senior, it’s crazy seeing all these students fresh out of high school.” 

According to STEP/CAP participants Al and Connor, the assistance of the CLs helped many students adjust to the three different classes and their varying levels of intensity. 

“There are three different study skills classes,” said Connor. “The classes are in film/production, art and psychology ... The CLs were amazing with their help. They’re very sweet and really bring a great vibe to everything.” 

“The classes are accelerated," said Al, "but we adjusted to them and things (became) more straightforward from there.”

Senior psychology major Raya Cruse elaborated on the games and events that she led along with fellow CLs to introduce students to Eastern’s unique culture. 

“I had a couple of events like ice cream socials and a Squid Game event,” she said. “We also did tennis games, a paint night and a tie-dye event, which made the STEP/CAP kids enthusiastic about being here ... I work as a resident assistant so I’m passionate about mentorship, and I love seeing the students at different stages of the process when they get to campus.” 

Senior social work major Emma Tagg, who has been working with STEP/CAP each year of her Eastern career, served as the head CL and explained her role, which fit between the professional staff and student CLs. 

“Being a STEP/CAP leader is rewarding, overwhelming, frustrating, exciting and one of the most fulfilling experiences I have had all wrapped into one,” she said. “My favorite part of the position and being a part of the program as a staff member is connecting with the students and being a role model they can look up to. 

“It is heartwarming knowing that you are an inspiration to someone, and it puts a smile on my face when I am told that I made a positive impact on a student who is preparing to become part of our Eastern community.”